5 Ways to Model Godly Behavior for Your Kids

It’s not easy being a mom. In the midst of everything on our plate, you also have to be a role model for your children. They are watching your every move and taking cues from your behavior on how they should behave. That can be a lot of pressure! Kids model what they see us do not what we tell them to do, whether it’s Godly or not.

The good news is that you don’t have to be perfect to be a godly influence on your kids. Just by being yourself and modeling Christ-like behavior, you can show them what it looks like to follow God. Here are a few things you can do to be a godly influence on your kids:

1. Pray with them and for them.

Prayer is such an important part of a relationship with God. It shows our dependence on Him and our trust that He will help us through whatever situation we’re facing. When you pray with your kids, they see those things in action and it gives them something to model their own prayer life after. Additionally, praying for your kids is a great way to stay focused on their spiritual well-being even when you can’t be there with them physically.

Also, let your kids see you praying with your spouse, praying alone in your room, in your living room, in the car, etc.

2. Read your Bible in front of them.

This is another great way to model a healthy relationship with God. When you sit down and read your Bible, your kids see that it’s important to you. They also see that it’s something that you enjoy doing and that brings you joy. As they get older, they will be more likely to want to read the Bible for themselves if they see you doing it. I have a few bibles but one of them is always on my coffee table. It’s my Bible specifically for at-home study and the kids see me in it constantly. They know it’s important to be in the Word because they see me in the Word.

3. Serve others.

One of the best ways to model Christ-like behavior is to serve others. When you put others first, your kids see that it’s not all about them. They learn that they can use their gifts and talents to bless others and that is a great character trait to have. Additionally, service projects are a great way to bond as a family. You can serve together at a local soup kitchen, food pantry, or even just in your neighborhood.

4. Show them real-time sanctification

No one is perfect, not even moms! When you make a mistake, apologize to your kids and ask for forgiveness. This shows them that even though we are imperfect, we can still seek after God and strive to be more like Him. It’s okay to admit that you’re not perfect and that you’re still learning. This will help your kids feel comfortable coming to you with their own struggles and mistakes. We’re not Jesus and we do not need to pretend to be. Let our kids see sanctification and growth in real time.

5. Live out Godly behavior daily.

Your kids are watching you more than you realize! They see how you act when things are going well and how you act when things are tough. They hear the way you talk about other people and the way you spend your free time. All of those things influence their own thoughts and behaviors. So live out your faith in everything that you do and say! Be patient when traffic cuts into your errand time, speak kindly about that coworker who gets on your nerves, and take some time out of your day to volunteer at the local food bank…whatever it looks like for you, let your light shine bright for Christ so that others may see Him through you (Matthew 5:16).

You are never alone in this parenting journey! God is always with you giving you the strength that you need each day. Lean on Him as you raised your little ones to follow in His footsteps!

Need a community of other women pouring into their kids as well trying to live out their faith? Come join my free community for mamas like you trying their very best here.

P.S. If you’re looking for more ways to be a godly influence on your kids, check out this post on how to raise children in an ungodly world.